AFT president criticizes house reconciliation bill calling it a betrayal

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten has voiced strong opposition to the recent reconciliation bill passed by the House of Representatives. The legislation, backed by Donald Trump, has been criticized for its potential impacts on working Americans and essential public services.

In a statement, Weingarten referred to the bill as "the big, ugly betrayal," emphasizing that it was passed during late hours and represents a significant challenge to ordinary citizens and the services they depend on. She highlighted concerns that the bill is primarily designed to facilitate tax cuts for billionaires at the expense of lower-income groups.

Weingarten pointed out that "seventy percent of the benefits will go to the top 5 percent at the expense of the bottom 40 percent," describing it as a "reverse Robin Hood heist" that could increase national debt and hinder economic progress.

Criticism also extended to healthcare provisions in the bill. According to Weingarten, "Rather than protect Medicare and Medicaid, this bill cuts them, denying healthcare to 14 million people." The statement further noted that instead of supporting public education or providing food assistance for needy families, these areas would face reductions under the new law.

Education funding is another focal point of contention. Weingarten argued against allocating $20 billion towards a school voucher program which she believes undermines public education by redirecting funds to private institutions. These vouchers are said to be linked with significant declines in student achievement and primarily benefit those already enrolled in private schools.

Despite Republican control, Weingarten remarked that the bill narrowly passed in the House. She urged Senate members to reject it while predicting active dissent from educators and working families who feel betrayed by their representatives' decisions. Their discontent may manifest through protests over summer months and influence voter behavior in upcoming elections.

Randi Weingarten serves as President alongside Fedrick C. Ingram as Secretary-Treasurer and Evelyn DeJesus as Executive Vice President of AFT, an organization affiliated with AFL-CIO.